England: London Day 3

Today was another FULL day. We're trying to make the most of our time here. We've also become experts (well, not quite) at using the Tube--London's subway. It's such an incredible network of trains. It's surprising, really, how well they all run. Today's highlights included--the Globe Theater, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and 10 Downing Street.

The outside of the Globe replica...the only wooden building and thatched roof in London.

Some very famous people helped rebuild the Globe.

I was a rebel and took a few photos inside the Globe when I wasn't really supposed to. These are the benches that  would have cost 2 pennies for the middle class in Shakespeare's day.

Some actors are actually beginning rehearsal for the play Richard II.

The upraised flag told theatergoers that a performance was in town.

The Tower Bridge, taken from the Millennium footbridge.

Big Ben from up close and personal

Me and Winston...Churchill, that is.

Westminster Abbey--site of Will and Kate's wedding

Buckingham Palace--we're not allowed in, unfortunately

We were told that all the gold was re-gilded for the Queen's 50th Jubilee Celebration as well as for the upcoming Olympics. It sure is shiny!

Contrary to popular belief (and that National Lampoons movie), Piccadilly Circus is no where near Big Ben and Parliament buildings. :)

"I can't get left!"

This is Trafalgar Square, and the statue is Charles I (I think).

Somewhere behind these iron bars is where Prime Minister David Cameron lives--number 10 Downing Street.

This is our cute, very quaint, hotel. We really like it. It's on a quiet street, but not too far from the action and the nearest tube station.

This is a picture inside the tube. This is the "central line." See the red  balance poles? The central line is red on all the tube maps, so that's how a rider can be sure she's on the right tube train. It's brilliant, really.